Help For Caretakers of Cancer Dogs

Dear Karen:My brother’s 8-year-old Lab was recently diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma, a cancer of the blood vessels with a high mortality rate. This will be the third dog he lost to cancer and he is devastated. They give Jake two months to live, with or without chemo, which he has elected not to do, but he is on medications to manage pain, inflammation, etc. He is tightly bonded to this dog and I wondered if you had suggestions to help owners deal with the alarming news that their pet has cancer or any other fatal disease. Thank you. Concerned Brother - Gettysburg

Dear Concerned:The statistics are grim. Experts predict one in three dogs will contract some form of cancer in their lifetime. It is the leading cause of death in dogs over 10. However, the age dogs are afflicted seems to be dropping--particularly within certain breeds. Your brother isn’t alone.

This disturbing trend is the subject of intense research at some of the county’s leading veterinary teaching hospitals. Until specific causes are identified, be they genetic or environmental, countless dogs will succumb to this devastating disease, leaving owners emotionally drained and bewildered.

Most of us have known a human who fought a courageous battle against cancer, but can’t comprehend losing a pet this way. I’ve seen many an owner leave the vet clinic in tears after getting the bad news. The pet is equally distressed, not because he knows he’s sick or dying, but because his owner is visibly shaken.

That is where the sorrow should end and the fight begins. Dogs have no fear of death, nor do they anticipate what will happen tomorrow. They live for the moment and that’s what owners of cancer dogs need to do. Whether its two months or two years, this is a time to celebrate his life, not dwell on the end. Playing an active role in your best friend’s fight against cancer benefits both of you and may actually extend his life.

It all starts with a positive, upbeat attitude – the same you would muster if you were talking to a human battling cancer. You certainly wouldn’t display overwhelming grief and sadness in their presence. It’s all about bolstering spirit and inspiring the will to live no matter how the chart reads. Remember, dogs are highly sensitive to our facial expressions, voice intonations, and body language.

So the first order of business is to put on a happy face and mean it. Look in the mirror to see what your dog sees. Sing him a song, even if you can’t carry a tune. Read him a short story or a poem in a calm yet confident voice. Indulge him with favorite foods and treats. Take him to his favorite park or walking trail while he is still mobile. If you run out of things to do, just sit and stroke his coat or give him a gentle massage. These are special bonding moments you’ll treasure forever.

Establish a circle of caring; that is, friends and relatives who understand what you are going through. Many on-line chat groups offer valuable support as well. Share your thoughts and concerns with these folks and reserve your positive energy for the four-legged patient.

Educate yourself on the condition as well as alternative holistic therapies and diets. As caretaker, you have the final decision on what is best for your dog and should be knowledgeable about all treatment options. Learn all you can and do not feel helpless.You are fighting the good fight.

If and when his condition deteriorates, have a “Quality of Life” list ready to determine when he is having more bad days than good. This would include such checkpoints as pain level, appetite, mobility, mental state, and general interest in his surroundings. You will know when it’s time to spare him undue pain and suffering. Dogs do not fear euthanasia. Knowing when to let go is our final gift for years of loyal companionship.

Above all, be strong to the very end. Be glad he is with you now and show him.